Sheshan Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Songjiang, China.
Sheshan Observatory is a research facility in Songjiang housing several major telescopes for observing the sky. The most impressive instrument is a 65-meter radio telescope that receives signals from space and helps scientists locate celestial objects and track spacecraft.
French Jesuits founded the station in 1899 as one of China's first centers for this kind of research. Over the 20th century the site grew and eventually combined forces with another observatory to strengthen its scientific work.
The facility reflects how modern astronomy brings together researchers from different countries working toward shared knowledge. Visitors walking through the site notice displays about space exploration that show China's growing role in international scientific partnerships.
The site sits on a hilltop with good viewing conditions and benefits from about 130 clear nights yearly, allowing regular observation work. Visitors should stay flexible with weather since clouds often affect telescope operations.
The station played a key role in China's first Moon missions by using precise radio-tracking methods to pinpoint spacecraft locations. This work was crucial for China to successfully explore the Moon.
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